Council partnership with author and artist Tom Crestodina highlights the vessels, equipment, and systems that prevent oil spills
A new illustrated book, “Protectors of Prince William Sound,” showcases the equipment, technology, training, local expertise, and skilled personnel that keeps Prince William Sound safe from an oil spill.
The Council recently partnered with Tom Crestodina, an Alaska fisherman based in Bellingham, Washington, and the creator of the popular “Working Boats: A Look Inside Ten Amazing Watercraft.”
Crestodina is a life-long artist who began making his signature whimsical cutaway drawings of marine vessels in 2011. His first drawings were made for his young son while he was at sea for long periods.
While his books are designed for children, they have become a favorite among Alaska mariners of all ages. In addition to the drawings, easy-to-read text explains the complex systems for readers who don’t have a technical background.
“We are excited to share this wonderful new book showcasing the oil spill prevention and response system in our region,” says Donna Schantz, the Council’s Executive Director. “It can be challenging to get people interested in oil spill prevention, because the public doesn’t see all the activities and hard work that goes into keeping oil out of the water.”
Where to find the book
The Council is providing free copies of the book for residents of the Exxon Valdez oil spill region (one per household while supplies last) during community visits throughout the year.
- Download a free e-book and check for upcoming community visits on the Council’s website: Protectors of Prince William Sound
- Crestodina’s other books can be found in bookstores or purchased through his website: thescow.bigcartel.com
Photo caption: Protectors of Prince William Sound” is filled with illustrations like this one in Crestodina’s signature style. The drawings show how and why local fishing vessels, escort tugs, pilot boats, tankers, and other technology work together to keep the marine ecosystems and coastal communities of Prince William Sound safe.
Why does Prince William Sound have such a world-class system?
In Prince William Sound a quiet day is a good day. The Sound is home to one of the best maritime oil spill prevention and response systems in the world.
Personnel are on alert to prevent another disaster like the 1989 Exxon Valdez oil spill and ready to respond if prevention measures fail.
But this system didn’t just appear out of nowhere. Alaskans learned hard lessons in 1989. The region was not prepared when the Exxon Valdez tanker struck Bligh Reef, spilling at least 11 million gallons of crude oil into Prince William Sound.
Changes to the system
After the disaster, Alaskans changed the laws governing oil spill response in Alaska. Local citizens, industry, and regulators worked together to reshape and update the system.
Today, in addition to a robust spill prevention system, the industry must have enough equipment and trained personnel ready to respond quickly to an Exxon Valdez-sized spill.
The story about how this system came together is documented in a Council report: [Link]